Rockets Add Guard Tristen Newton on Two-Way Deal, Waive Tyler Smith
SLUG: rockets-add-tristen-newton-two-way-deal
The Houston Rockets are bringing in guard Tristen Newton on a two-way contract and will release forward Tyler Smith to make room, according to a league source.
Newton, 24, recently excelled with the Iowa Wolves in the G League, averaging 26.8 points, 7.7 assists, 4.9 rebounds and 1.7 steals while shooting 49.4% from the floor and 37.6% from beyond the arc. The 6-foot-5 shooting guard had signed a two-way deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves in September but was waived before the regular season began.
Indiana drafted Newton 49th overall in 2024. He appeared in five NBA games on a two-way contract with the Pacers before being waived last January, then played three additional games after Minnesota claimed him off waivers.
If Houston finalizes the paperwork today, Newton may suit up in as many as 29 games for the Rockets this season. His two-way salary becomes fully guaranteed if he remains on the roster through Wednesday.
Smith, 21, has yet to appear in an NBA game since signing his two-way deal with Houston on December 2. The 33rd pick in the 2024 draft played 23 games for Milwaukee last season.
Source: Hoops Rumors
